Description
The painting St Theresa in Ecstasy by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta is a masterpiece of 18th century Italian Baroque art. This painting represents Saint Teresa of Ávila in a moment of mystical ecstasy, floating in the air while an angel holds an arrow, a symbol of divine love that pierces her.
Piazzetta's artistic style is characterized by his ability to capture emotion and movement in his works. In this painting, the figure of Saint Teresa appears to be in a trance-like state, her eyes closed and her mouth ajar as her body rises into the air. The angel holding her is also in motion, with outstretched wings and her gaze fixed on the saint.
The composition of the painting is very balanced, with the figure of Saint Teresa in the center and the angel at her side. The dark background and dramatic lighting emphasize the sense of mysticism and divinity that is portrayed in the work.
Color also plays an important role in this painting. Saint Teresa's clothing is bright white, while the angel is dressed in darker, earthier colors. This contrasts with the light emanating from the figure of the saint, creating a luminous effect that highlights her divinity.
The history of the painting is interesting, as it was commissioned by Count Algarotti, a famous patron of the arts in Venice, and is currently in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC.
A little-known aspect of this work is that it was criticized by some of Piazzetta's contemporaries, who considered the depiction of Saint Teresa in ecstasy too sensual and worldly. However, the painting has endured through time as one of the most important works of the artist and of Italian Baroque art in general.